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Classic el34 tube amps versus current models

does anyone have direct listening experience on how the classic el34 tube amps of my youth (marantz 8b, dynaco stereo 70', conrad johnson mv45) compare sonically to the current el34 amps? i have seen some of theses older units for sale and have considered buyin one. i am in the market for a 2k -3k amp and saw an old marantz 8b in that price range.

i am a sucker for midrange and soundstage and listen to alot of female vocals. my speakers are original rogers ls3/5a and proac tablettes, both of which love the el34s.  i am inbetween amps right now, buthave recovered from a financial setback so i am back in the market
meiatflask
mb1audio02
188 posts
 
" Not to change directions of the conversation, but a friend suggested that if I like el34 amps, I should consider 300b single ended.  Any comments on the 300b versus the el34?"

These products are not generic sounding. All 300b amps will sound different from each other, as will all el34 amps. Another big consideration when trying to choose between the 2 is usually power related. Generally speaking, the average el34 amp is more powerful than the average 300b amp.

If you really want a 300b amp a good compromise might be to get a 300b push pull wired for triod operation. My VAC 30/30 is like this. So far, its been able to power any speaker I've tried with it.

bdp24's avatar
bdp24
9,816 posts
 
For an EL34 amp, a Music Reference RM9 Mk.2 was listed on Audiogon just yesterday with an asking price of $2250 I believe. It is a far better amp than the Marantz 8b and Dynaco ST70. Dick Olsher did a great review of it in Stereophile when it was new, which can be found via a Google search. 125w/channel from 4 EL34’s per, and the tubes last a long time in the amp, a high priority of designer Roger Modjeski.
glennewdick's avatar
glennewdick
1,688 posts
 

i hear really good things about these guys they build kits and pre assembled amps and  preamps  based on the Dynaco ST series.


http://www.tubes4hifi.com/home.html


audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,166 posts
 
The top line Jolida line has many upgraded capacitors,resistors and  in amplifiers 
the transformers,power supplies are the heart of any quality power amp, or integrated . And these 3502 with specific letter I forgot retail $2300 for ,el-34, 60wpc.
and 80wpc with the kt150 tube which is very dynamic but still has the soul of  most a el-34 tube but with added punch.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Meiatflask, 
It can become somewhat complex when comparing different types of amplifiers due to the multiple variables involved. Yet at times one can make general statements that have merit based on observation and experience, they just aren’t absolute proclamations.

I’d prefer the 300b even as a push pull over an el 34 simply because I believe that it is Intrinsically the better sounding tube. There is a used Audio Space Reference 3.1 for sale on Audiogon that is a 20 watt push pull 300b amplifier for 3 K USD. I say this amplifier with appropriate speakers will provide enormous musical joy.
Charles
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